Leon Bridges on returning to his Texas roots with new album inspired by Fort Worth
Leon Bridges grammy winner The singer-songwriter returns to touring following the release of his fourth album, Leon, which he describes as a “love letter” to his hometown of Fort Worth, Texas. Bridges kicked off the tour in September at the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
Bridges spent his early years playing at open mic nights in Fort Worth. His first gig outside of his hometown was with C-Boys Heart & Soul in Austin.
“I’m very anxious about it,” Bridges said during a visit with the C-Boys.
While taking advantage of every acting opportunity, Bridges also moonlighted as a dishwasher. He used the encouragement he received at the open mic as motivation to keep going.
“A lot of people go back home and say, ‘One day, you’re going to make it,'” he said.
On his latest album, Leon, he returns to his love for his hometown and documents a journey back to his roots.
“I wanted to make an album that reflected myself, like when I’m not in the lights and when I’m home fort worth,” he said.
His career took off with his debut album “Coming Home,” which charted on the Billboard charts. His hit single “River” resonated with listeners and eventually went double platinum. It also appeared in the TV series “Big Little Lies.”
Despite her success, Bridges struggled with her reputation as a self-described introvert. He says getting personal in his music sometimes leads to a “vulnerability hangover” that makes him wonder if he’s sharing too much.
Although Bridges is quiet, his fashion is often loud. His unique style is just another part of his artistic talent.
“I think it’s a way of saying something that doesn’t need to be said,” he said, adding that he has always believed there is value in “fashion reflecting music.”
When he’s not touring, Bridges finds peace at home in Fort Worth, where he can be with the people who know him best.
“Staying in Fort Worth really helped me stay sane,” he said. “The thing I’m looking forward to most is knowing at the end of the tour that I’m surrounded by people who love me for who I am.”
